Try Scuba Diving for Beginners with manta rays (Non – Certified)

If you’re dreaming of a once-in-a-lifetime underwater experience but aren’t certified to dive, the Try Scuba Diving program on Nusa Penida might just be your perfect ticket. This activity promises a shallow, guided underwater adventure with the chance to see majestic manta rays—a spectacle only a handful of places in the world can guarantee. With the opportunity to learn the basics in a pool before hitting the open water, many travelers find this tour a fantastic way to dip their toes into scuba without the full commitment of certification.

What we particularly like about this experience is its emphasis on safety and accessibility. The inclusion of pool training ensures you’re comfortable before heading out, and the group size is kept small (max 10 travelers), which helps with personalized attention. However, some reviews suggest that the quality of instruction can vary, so a bit of caution is warranted if you’re new to water sports.

This tour is best suited for adventure seekers who want to try something new, first-time divers eager to see manta rays, or travelers with a moderate level of physical fitness who are comfortable in the water. If you’re after a relaxed introduction to scuba with the chance to witness incredible marine life, this could be a worthwhile option.

Key Points

• Ideal for non-certified divers wanting a guided underwater experience
• Includes pool training and shallow dives for a safe, gradual introduction
• Guarantees manta ray sightings—a rare and exciting opportunity
• Small group size (up to 10) for personalized attention
• All equipment, drinks, and snacks included—no hidden costs
• Some concerns over instructor experience, based on reviews

Overview of the Experience

This Try Scuba tour is designed to introduce novices to the underwater world with an emphasis on safety and fun. Starting bright and early at 8:30 am from the Sanctum Dive Center in Nusa Penida, you’ll begin with 45 minutes of pool training. This is crucial, as it allows you to get comfortable with the equipment and basic skills before venturing into open water. The focus here is on building confidence rather than complex skills, making it accessible even for complete beginners.

Once the pool session wraps up, you’ll head out on a boat to your dive site. The boat journey offers stunning views of Nusa Penida’s coastline—perfect for snapping photos or simply soaking in the scenery. The actual dives are shallow—perfect for beginners—and guided closely by professional instructors in a 1:2 ratio. You’ll be accompanied by all necessary gear, which includes wetsuits, masks, fins, and tanks, so there’s no need to worry about packing your own equipment.

The highlight of the trip is, of course, the chance to see manta rays gliding through the water. Nusa Penida’s waters are renowned for manta sightings, and this tour has the added advantage of almost guaranteeing this. Many travelers rave about the sheer grace of these creatures, which makes the experience genuinely memorable.

The entire activity lasts roughly four hours, ending back at Sanctum Dive Center at about 2 pm. As part of the package, you’re also treated to lunch, snacks, and drinks, giving you a little extra energy to explore the island afterward.

What Makes This Tour Special?

The promise of seeing manta rays in the wild is a major draw. Unlike many beginner snorkel or introductory dive experiences, this tour offers actual underwater encounters with these gentle giants, making it far more immersive. The small group size and ratio of instructor to diver also mean you’ll receive personalized guidance, which is essential for first-timers.

The inclusion of pool training is another highlight. We loved how this adds a layer of comfort, especially for those who might be nervous about breathing underwater for the first time. The training is brief—about 45 minutes—but enough to familiarize you with equipment and basic breathing techniques.

The scenery of Nusa Penida, both on the water and underwater, is breathtaking. Expect crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral formations, and the thrill of being so close to large marine animals. This experience isn’t just about the activity itself but also about witnessing the raw beauty of Bali’s underwater ecosystem.

The Itinerary in Detail

8:00 am: Pool training at Sanctum Dive Center. Here, you’ll learn how to breathe with scuba gear, control buoyancy, and handle basic equipment. The instructors are supposed to be attentive, but one review warns about inexperienced staff, so it’s worth being cautious and communicating if you’re uncomfortable.

9:00 am: Depart for the boat. The boat ride itself is part of the adventure, offering panoramic views and a chance to relax before the dives. Keep your camera ready for some great photos of Nusa Penida’s rugged coastline.

9:30 am – 11:30 am: Two shallow dives with the instructor, focusing on observing manta rays and the underwater environment. The small group size ensures you get plenty of attention and guidance.

12:00 pm: Return to the boat and head back to the dock, enjoying drinks, snacks, and fruits onboard. Many travelers mention how refreshing it is to relax after the dives while soaking up the scenery.

12:30 pm – 2:00 pm: Final moments, debrief, and return to the Sanctum Dive Center, where the experience concludes.

Practical Details and Considerations

Pricing at $125.91 per person offers good value when you consider the inclusion of equipment, boat transfers, training, snacks, and lunch. The total duration of around four hours means it’s a half-day activity, leaving plenty of time to explore Nusa Penida afterward.

Booking in advance is recommended, with an average of 15 days ahead, to secure your spot, especially during peak seasons. The maximum group size of 10 keeps the experience intimate, but it’s worth noting that a review mentions inconsistency in instructor quality, which could impact your comfort level.

What to bring: Swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and a good attitude. Since no breakfast is included, plan to eat beforehand or enjoy a quick snack before you arrive.

Transportation: You’ll need to arrange private transportation to the Sanctum Dive Center, as it’s not included. Meeting at 8:30 am ensures a smooth start.

Authentic Experiences from Reviews

While most reviews are positive, one points out a less-than-ideal training environment. “Very inexperienced coaches and a terrible place to learn,” says one reviewer. The instructor’s attitude was criticized as unfriendly and potentially unsafe, highlighting the importance of communicating if you’re uncomfortable.

On the upside, many travelers found the opportunity to see manta rays rewarding, describing the creatures as “graceful” and “magical.” The views of Nusa Penida from the water are often praised as stunning, making the entire trip a visual treat, even if some found the instruction less polished.

The Sum Up: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This Try Scuba Diving experience in Nusa Penida offers a solid introduction to scuba for those curious about exploring underwater life but without the commitment to certification. The chance to see manta rays makes it stand out from typical beginner water activities.

It’s best suited for adventurous travelers comfortable in the water, those eager to see marine life up close, or first-timers seeking a guided, safe, and manageable introduction. Be aware that instructor experience varies, so if you’re nervous or highly particular about training quality, do some extra research or ask for specific instructor info beforehand.

If you’re looking for a memorable, guided introduction to underwater exploration with a chance to encounter one of the ocean’s most iconic creatures, this tour can deliver. Just come with an open mind—and a good sense of humor—ready to embrace the underwater magic of Bali’s Nusa Penida.

FAQ

Do I need to be certified to join this activity?
No, this is a non-certified activity, designed specifically for beginners who want a guided, shallow underwater experience with professional supervision.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers pool training, all scuba gear, boat transport, drinks, snacks, and lunch. You don’t need to bring your own equipment.

How long does the entire experience last?
The activity runs for approximately four hours, starting at 8:30 am and finishing around 2 pm, including training, boat rides, and dives.

Is there a minimum age or physical requirement?
Participants should have a moderate level of physical fitness. Specific age restrictions aren’t detailed, but the focus is on safe, manageable activities suitable for beginners.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather, and if canceled due to weather conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility if your plans change.

In the end, this tour provides a great chance to ease into scuba, witness majestic manta rays, and enjoy the natural beauty of Nusa Penida’s waters. While instructor experience can vary, the overall experience is an exciting, accessible introduction to the underwater world that many travelers find unforgettable.